Fetal Origin of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

The normal development of ovarian structure and function is crucial for maintaining female fertility. However, the prevalence of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) in women has been increasing in recent years, which significantly affects the reproductive health of women of reproductive age and poses long-term risks, such as an increased risk of multiple diseases (e.g., bone and cardiovascular diseases). Researchers are increasingly interested in intrauterine environmental alterations and early programming of human reproductive health based on the “Developmental Origins of Health and Disease” theory. The mechanism of fetal-originated ovarian disease is associated with altered “intrauterine programming” during the fetal period. The adverse environment during pregnancy (e.g., exposure to environmental toxins, drugs, smoking, excessive alcohol, or coffee intake) affects maternal health, the structural and functional development of the offspring’s ovaries, and their reproductive health in adulthood. This chapter provides a comprehensive summary of the phenomena and mechanisms of fetal-originated POI.